lemon thyme
Thymus citriodorus ( syn. T. x citriodorus )
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
3
Flowers:
No flowers, Yellow, Brown Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Acidic, Well-drained
Cones:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Pyramidal cedar (Thuja occidentalis 'Fastigiata') should be watered deeply and consistently throughout the growing season. When temperatures are high or the soil is dry, water the plant once a week, making sure to go deep enough to moisten the root zone. During the peak of summer, water twice a week. During cooler temperatures in fall and spring, water about once every 10 days. In winter, water Pyramidal cedar about once a month, as the plant is dormant and does not need a lot of water. Make sure to check the soil moisture level frequently and adjust your watering accordingly.
sunlight
Pyramidal cedar (Thuja occidentalis 'Fastigiata') needs at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight every day in order to grow and thrive. This plant species prefers full sun to partial sun, meaning it should be placed in an area of the garden with direct exposure to sunlight for the majority of the day. During the summer months, when the days are longer and the sun is stronger, pyramidal cedars require a little less direct sunlight. But during the spring and fall months, when the days are short, the cedars will need more direct sun and a longer period of exposure.
pruning
Pyramidal cedar can be pruned at any time of the year, but it is usually pruned in late Winter or early Spring, before new growth starts. The amount of pruning is determined by how large the tree or shrub is and what shape the gardener wants to maintain. For larger specimens, begin by removing the lower, inner branches, leaving an open center. In cases of more extensive pruning, thin out the branches by removing a few of the larger branches. Thinning out the branches will allow light and air to reach the inner branches, promoting a healthier plant. Avoid cutting off all of the new growth as this will weaken the plant. Instead, remove the 2-thirds of the longest shoots, cutting them back to a strong bud or new growth point. Trim back the sides of the pyramidal cedar to create an even, cone shaped form. Be very careful when pruning this plant, as it will not tolerate harsh pruning.
